Ryan Smith remembered at Edmond North-Westmoore game

MOORE — Ryan Smith's presence was felt in a multitude of ways Friday at Moore Stadium.

It was felt in the donations that poured in for Smith's grieving family. It was felt in small tributes, like the banner hanging behind unbeaten Edmond North's bench — “7-0 Remembering Ryan” — or his teammate, sophomore Taevyon Warren, standing on the sideline wearing a white T-shirt with “R.I.P. Ryan Smith #67” written on the back in black marker.

Edmond North fans stand behind a banner honoring player Ruan Smith (67) as the Westmoore Jaguars play the Edmond North Huskies at Moore Stadium on Friday, Oct. 14, 2011, in Moore, Okla. Photo by Steve Sisney, The Oklahoman

It was felt during a powerful moment of silence just before kickoff. The Huskies took a knee and bowed their heads while Smith's number was displayed on the Jumbotron.

And it was especially felt in the Huskies' 27-13 win over Westmoore.

Smith, a sophomore defensive lineman, died Wednesday night after breaking his leg in practice on Tuesday. The cause of death is still unknown.

The Huskies trailed 6-3 at halftime Friday, but scored 17 points in the third quarter to take a comfortable lead.

“In the second half, it just felt right,” senior tight end Troy Davis said.

“We felt like we had to go out and do this for him. It picked up the team and brought us closer together. We needed it.”

On Thursday, Edmond North's football booster club set up the Ryan Smith Memorial Fund to help his family with burial costs.

“The family needs financial help,” booster club president Lisa Molinsky said. “In the 24 hours after we created the memorial fund, the response has been awe-inspiring.”

Soon after Smith's death became public knowledge, Westmoore's booster club contacted Molinsky to offer condolences and help.

Friday, Westmoore had buckets at the stadium entrance gates and at concession stands to raise money.